Area Guide

Living in Gwaelod Y Garth & Tongwynlais

Overview

Gwaelod Y Garth and Tongwynlais are popular, picturesque, yet small villages on the edges of the City. With far reaching countryside views and plenty of character, the villages are a popular place to live.

The hub of Gwaelod Y Garth has to be at the top end of the village where there is the village pub, the Gwaelod Y Garth Inn and Gwaelod-y-Garth Primary School, village hall and chapel. Tongwynlais has a central section with cafes, pubs, shops, primary school and bike cafes which attract plenty of tourists to the area along with the Golf Club and Taff trail.

Both villages have unique personalities, and this is clear in the properties and amenities. Both have an array of beautiful turn-of-the-century cottages, more elaborate architecturally designed homes, and family friendly semi-detached houses with generous gardens. Average house prices are slightly cheaper compared to those in other spots in the North of Cardiff, which mean good value, yet still offering easy access to all amenities.

History & Background

Gwaelod-y-Garth and Tongwynlais are two picturesque, semi-rural villages nestled at the foot of the Garth Mountain, near the northern boundary of Cardiff. Steeped in history, both have roots in Wales' coal mining past and offer a more tranquil lifestyle while remaining close to the capital.

• Gwaelod-y-Garth (meaning “Foot of the Garth”) is known for its stunning mountain backdrop, traditional stone cottages, and literary connection to Roald Dahl, whose parents once lived nearby.
• Tongwynlais is famously home to Castell Coch, the iconic 19th-century fairytale castle built on medieval ruins and perched above the village.

These villages offer a peaceful, scenic alternative to city living with all the benefits of Cardiff just minutes away.

Things to Do & Local Amenities

Both villages offer a strong sense of community and access to nature:

• Castell Coch: A major local landmark with tours and forest trails.
• The Garth Mountain: A popular walking spot offering panoramic views over Cardiff and beyond.
• Taff Trail: A scenic walking/cycling route passing through both villages along the River Taff.
• Local Shops: Small convenience stores and post offices serve everyday needs.
• Leisure: Close to Radyr Golf Club and Tennis Club, Whitchurch sports facilities, and the forested trails of Fforest Fawr.

Bars, Restaurants, Cafés & Pubs

Cosy pubs and local favourites abound:

• Gwaelod-y-Garth Inn: Renowned for its food, views, and traditional charm.
• Lewis Arms (Tongwynlais): A traditional Brains pub with hearty meals and a welcoming local atmosphere.
• Cinnamon Tree: A well-regarded Indian restaurant in Tongwynlais.
• Nearby Radyr: Cicchetti Italian. Family run pavement café and restaurant. 

 
Community Events

• Local Village Events: Seasonal fairs, quiz nights, and carol singing during Christmas.
• Castell Coch Events: Historical reenactments, outdoor cinema, and seasonal activities.
• Garth Walking Group & Community Associations: Active local groups promoting wellbeing and social connection.

Hidden Gems

• Gwaelod Woodland Trail: A peaceful walk through woods behind the village.
• Fforest Fawr Sculpture Trail: A family-friendly walking route with wooden carvings hidden in the forest.
• Disused Railway Walks: Traces of the area’s industrial past, now repurposed for nature lovers.

Average House Prices

Homes in Gwaelod-y-Garth and Tongwynlais are in high demand due to their village charm and scenic setting:

• Overall Average: £325,000
• Detached Homes: £380,000–£550,000+
• Semi-Detached Homes: £300,000–£375,000
• Cottages/Terraced Homes: £250,000–£300,000

Prices vary significantly depending on views, period features, and proximity to the mountain or trails.

Average Rental Prices

Rental properties are fewer but sought after:

• 2-Bedroom Homes: £900–£1,100/month
• 3-4 Bedroom Homes: £1,200–£1,600+/month
• Character Cottages (rare): £850–£1,000/month

Ideal for those seeking rural tranquillity near the city.

Commute to City Centre & M4

• Road: Both villages have easy access to the A470 and M4 (Junction 32) — approx. 10–15 minutes into central Cardiff by car.
• Train: Radyr or Taffs Well stations offer regular services into Cardiff Central (approx. 15–20 minutes).
• Bus Services: Connect to Whitchurch, Cardiff city centre, and Pontypridd.

Healthcare

• Taff’s Well Medical Centre: Closest GP practice for both villages.
• Nearby Surgeries in Whitchurch and Radyr offer wider healthcare options.
• University Hospital of Wales: Just a 15-minute drive for comprehensive medical care.

Schools

Well-regarded schools serve the local area:

• Tongwynlais Primary School: Highly rated English-medium primary.
• Gwaelod-y-Garth Primary School: A popular Welsh-medium school with strong academic performance.
• Secondary Catchments: Include Radyr Comprehensive and Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf, both highly regarded.
• Private Schooling: Cardiff’s private schools (e.g., Howell’s, Cardiff Sixth Form College) are within a 20-minute drive.